Green homes are a factor in a quality environment and save homeowners money. By reducing energy consumption, energy bills are reduced and fewer harmful gases are released into the earth’s environment. This deal presents a legitimate “win-win” opportunity for homeowners. The course of going “green” may involve buying an energy-efficient home, remodeling an existing property, or switching to Energy Star appliances. There are also less expensive ways to get started. Getting started doesn’t have to be a long or complicated process. For example, there are now qualified energy experts who will examine how energy is consumed in your home, make appropriate recommendations, and seal leaks and airflows that consume energy and cause unnecessary expenses. These professionals charge modest fees that are quickly offset by the results of their efforts. As always, look for people with the proper credentials, and then check references to ensure a successful outcome.
Kidney on your home’s energy use and cut bills
Obviously, it is feasible to carry out your own energy inspection. Start by looking for leaks or drafts in bases, joists, doors, and windows. Examine sockets and plugs. Seal drafts, cracks, and gaps with appropriate solutions such as caulk, spray insulation, or window tape. Ask your local hardware store what products will fix your power leaks. Contact local utility companies for details on peak power hours. Reduce appliance consumption during these times, and don’t overload or underload your dishwasher, washer, or dryer. Oversized loads make motors work harder and create unnecessary expense. Turn off all lights when leaving a room or your home.
Air conditioning charges can be reduced by closing the curtains and blinds during the hottest hours of the day and keeping the windows closed. It is also essential to choose a temperature to set your thermostat and stick with it. Fluctuating temperatures consume more electricity than keeping the air conditioner at the same temperature. Programmable thermostats maintain a constant temperature and save up to 20 percent on electric bills.
Buy an energy efficient house that is ready to use
If you are thinking of buying a different house, do you decide to make it a “green” house? Today’s modern homebuilders are building green properties that come with excellent insulation, energy-saving blinds and windows, and appliances that are invented to conserve resources. You can get this type of house on the MLS or by asking a local real estate agent. Try to find an agent who specializes in green homes. Owning an energy efficient property is a smart choice in today’s real estate market. These houses are popular and are likely to resell quickly. Buyers like to live in modern houses that are invented to take care of their well-being and allow them to be socially conscious.
If now is not the right time to buy, consider doing home improvements that modernize your home with the latest developments in green living. You can find recycled flooring, carpeting, refrigeration and window treatments that are energy efficient. You can even deduct certain types of pre-specified improvements on your taxes. Contact your accountant for more details. Start a green lifestyle now and make our world a better place!